Six Nigerian citizens previously held in Côte d’Ivoire regarding accusations of economic offenses have been released. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announced on Friday that the outcome was the result of extensive diplomatic negotiations between the two nations.
Four individuals were released on June 22, 2026, with the final two securing their freedom the following day. The Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan played a central role in this resolution. Ambassador Nwabiola C. Ezenwa and her team maintained continuous communication with Ivorian authorities throughout the ordeal.
The Federal Government expressed gratitude toward Ambassador Ezenwa and the embassy staff for their diligence, while also acknowledging the cooperation shown by the Ivorian government. Officials noted that the positive bilateral ties between the two countries were instrumental in the peaceful conclusion of the case. The government reiterated that safeguarding the rights and welfare of Nigerians living abroad remains a primary objective.
